Saddle Cats return for a WCS and Food Bank benefit concert on Nov. 9

Willits Community Services and Food Bank is planning a fundraiser that's guaranteed to be a fun-raiser, says Tamara Adams of Emandal Farm.

Richard Chon and the Saddle Cats are returning to Willits. The swing pocket orchestra is enlivening cowboy and Western music everywhere with infectious joy and high spirits," says Willits Community Services and Food Bank Executive Director Jim Marill.

"Two years ago they performed at Emandal-A Farm on a River, and have wanted to return to the Willits area ever since," Adams adds.

With a repertoire that draws from the rich tapestry of traditional American music, this four-piece ensemble embraces the worlds of swing, cowboy ballads, blues, Tin Pan Alley, honky-tonk, string band music, polka and just about any traditional style under the sun.

"It's a performance for all ages, all backgrounds anyone who believes that music transforms," Adams says.

Bobby Black (steel guitar), Richard Chon (fiddle and vocals) Gordon Clegg (guitar) and Bing Nathan (bass) are the Saddle Cats. Each has had a unique history of associations and performances, from Asleep at the Wheel, Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen to Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks.

"It's an evening you will long remember," Marill says.

The benefit concert will be held at Little Lake Grange on Friday, November 9. The show starts at 7:30 p.m.

General admission tickets, available at The Goods' Shoppe and at Mazahar are $20, adult pre-sale; $25, at the door; and $10, children under 12.

"The Willits Food Bank is always in need of funding, more so at this time of year, and with this economy," Marill says. "Here's your chance to help your own community and enjoy some absolutely outstanding world-class entertainment in return.